Chicago Bulls Wrap Up Preseason with Key Questions Ahead of Season Opener
The Chicago Bulls concluded their preseason with a 126-120 victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves at the United Center on October 16, 2025. Finishing with a record of 2-3 in exhibition games, the Bulls are now set to begin the regular season on October 18 against the Detroit Pistons. While preseason results often do not predict regular-season success, Chicago faces significant questions as they finalize their roster and strategy.
Evaluating Matas Buzelis’ All-Star Potential
One of the primary highlights for the Bulls this preseason has been the performance of Matas Buzelis. The second-year forward has emerged as a beacon of hope for Chicago’s future, averaging 17.6 points per game during the exhibition period. His improvements have included an enhanced offensive game, showcasing a new hesitation move that has proven effective against defenders.
At just 21 years old, Buzelis has also demonstrated defensive prowess, blocking five shots in a recent loss against the Denver Nuggets, although he expressed disappointment in his overall defensive performance that night. The Bulls have high expectations for him, and he has set a personal goal of making the All-Defensive team this season. With the right development, could this be the year he emerges as an All-Star?
Injury Concerns for Coby White and Others
Questions about the Bulls’ lineup also center on the status of Coby White. The guard, who entered training camp with a calf strain, was anticipated to play in the final preseason game but ultimately sat out. Head Coach Billy Donovan has emphasized a cautious approach to White’s recovery, acknowledging the risks associated with rushing back from injury.
Additionally, Ayo Dosunmu and newcomer Isaac Okoro were unavailable for the game due to thumb and knee soreness, respectively. These absences add to the uncertainty surrounding the starting lineup as the Bulls prepare for their season opener.
Defensive Strategy Still in Development
The Bulls have indicated a strong desire to improve their defensive capabilities this season, a goal that was evident at times during the preseason. Buzelis’ growth as a defender, particularly when paired with guard Tre Jones, highlights some progress. However, the overall defensive scheme remains a work in progress.
Rotations have been slow, and perimeter pressure has been minimal, allowing opposing shooters to find open looks. Notably, players like Josh Giddey and Nikola Vucevic struggled in one-on-one matchups, raising concerns about the team’s defensive readiness as they approach the regular season.
Exploring Two-Big Lineups
In a strategic shift during the preseason finale, the Bulls experimented with a two-big lineup featuring centers Vucevic and Jalen Smith. This approach was partly necessitated by injuries to several guards. While the two-big configuration aims to counter larger opponents like the Timberwolves, the initial results were mixed.
The Bulls continued their trend of slow starts, which have plagued them throughout the preseason. Although the two-big lineup showed promise when spaced correctly, it remains uncertain whether this strategy will become a staple in the regular season. The coaching staff may lean towards using Buzelis as a versatile defender rather than relying solely on a double-center approach.
The Development of Noa Essengue
Rookie forward Noa Essengue, the Bulls’ No. 12 draft pick, faced a critical preseason. As a long-term project, the coaching staff is providing him with opportunities to develop, albeit with a focus on immediate performance. Essengue’s average of 14 minutes per game highlights the need for further growth before he can secure consistent playing time in the regular season.
Although he displayed flashes of potential, including effective transition play and an ability to draw fouls, his defensive timing and on-ball skills require significant improvement. The Bulls are taking a cautious approach, similar to their development of Buzelis, pulling Essengue from the court when mistakes occur.
As the Chicago Bulls prepare for their regular season, these critical questions remain. The performance and health of key players will greatly influence their success as they strive to establish themselves in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
